Naperville 203 Welcomes 2018

At Naperville 203, we welcome 2018 with the excitement and opportunity that a new year brings. We are refreshed and re-energized for what’s to come at the District. Please allow me to share a few recent, inspiring achievements of our students and educators.

At a recent Board of Education meeting, teachers, students and District staff presented feedback on new blended learning courses at the high schools. Blended learning courses offer students a combined online and traditional classroom experience that enables them to work at their own pace, while still keeping up with the rigor of a traditional classroom. Teachers praised the opportunity for students to learn important life skills like time management and self-advocacy through this type of course. The blended courses also allow teachers a greater ability to differentiate and meet the instructional needs of students.

Students shared they enjoyed the freedom the courses allowed them to complete assignments at their own place and pace, while knowing they have the classroom time and support from their teachers. Based on the success of nearly 400 students enrolled in 11 blended learning courses this year, we will be offering 37 courses for students to choose from in 2018-19.

Each month at our Board of Education meetings, we honor “Mission Makers” who are students that exemplify a part of our District mission. Recently, two Mission Maker Awards were presented including a group of 8th graders and a 2nd grader who prove that at any age, we can make a difference!

On December 18, we recognized Scott Elementary School 2nd grader Knox Held. Knox was nominated by his teachers, Kate Boyens and Jill Jacobucci, for being a leader and role model in his classroom by going above and beyond to help and do things that aren't asked of him. He is also an incredibly empathetic, collaborative partner who is patient with all students and is willing to help guide his peers through challenging activities.

At the January 22 Board meeting, Washington Junior High School 8th graders, Deirdre Curran, Anna Melnikoff, Mia Kunath, and Ella Carnahan were honored for their leadership. The girls created and lead, The Ripple Effect, which promotes kindness through inspiration, action, and a welcoming climate for all. They were nominated by school psychologist, Stephanie Guglielmucci. The club promotes random acts of kindness among students at Washington Jr High. Their intent is to inspire all students to do what is right and make the school a more positive environment for all students.

We continue to be inspired by our school district community who every day continue our mission to educate all students to be self-directed learners, collaborative workers, complex thinkers, quality producers and community contributors. I look forward to working together to continuously improve the educational experience for all our students and prepare them for their next stage in life. Thank you for your continued support #Inspire203